Materials Engineers

NASA Materials Engineer

NASA Materials Engineer

NASA Materials Engineer

Materials Engineers

Solar Materials Scientist (green)

Materials Engineer

Job Information

Evaluate materials and develop machinery and processes to manufacture materials for use in products that must meet specialized design and performance specifications. Develop new uses for known materials. Includes those engineers working with composite materials or specializing in one type of material, such as graphite, metal and metal alloys, ceramics and glass, plastics and polymers, and naturally occurring materials. Includes metallurgists and metallurgical engineers, ceramic engineers, and welding engineers.

Information

Employment is projected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations, although growth will vary by specialty; overall job opportunities for engineers are expected to be good.

A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for most entry-level jobs, but some research positions may require a graduate degree.

Starting salaries are among the highest of all college graduates.

Continuing education is critical for engineers in order to keep up with improvements in technology.